The myeloproliferative disorders are a group of bone marrow cancers characterized by increased production of blood cells. These diseases may cause increased red cell counts (polycythemia vera), increase platelets (essential thrombocytosis), or increased marrow fibrosis (myelofibrosis).

These diseases may result in fatigue, bleeding, infections, swollen glands (including the spleen), and unfortunately they may convert into acute leukemia.

The prognosis is very variable for these differing diseases. Treatment also is quite variable and may consist of treatments such as phlebotomy (in P.vera), anegrelide or hydroxyurea (in ET) or even bone marrow transplantation.

The Adult Stem Cell- Bone Marrow Transplant Program of Hackensack University Medical Center has active transplant treatment protocols for Myeloproliferative Disorders. For more information on this treatment or to schedule an appointment call (201) 996-5849.

ALLOGENEIC TRANSPLANT OPTIONS

For patients with Tissue-matched (HLA-matched) brother/sister bone marrow donors allogeneic transplantation treatment protocols may be appropriate. One trial uses high-dose cyclophosphamide combined with either total body irradiation or high-dose busulfan. Following this aggressive conditioning therapy, bone marrow (or peripheral blood stem cells) from an HLA-matched donor is infused. Graft-versus-host disease prevention is accomplished with combinations of tacrolimus and methotrexate. This very aggressive curative treatment requires a one-month hospitalization.

UNRELATED TRANSPLANT TREATMENT OPTIONS

For patients lacking a family member marrow donor, the Hackensack University Medical Center Transplant Programs are participating in several unrelated transplant protocols.

The National Marrow Donor Program has enlisted over 3 million volunteer bone marrow donors. If an HLA matched unrelated donor can be located, a transplant using high-dose cyclophosphamide and total body irradiation can be performed.

Hackensack University Medical Center is also participating in a multicenter trial evaluating the use of expanded Cord Blood Cells in the treatment of cancers and blood diseases. This trial also extends the treatment options for patients without HLA Matched relative donors. For more information click here and also review ex-vivo expansion in the stem cell laboratory section.

NON-TRANSPLANT OPTIONS

The physicians at the Northern New Jersey Cancer Center are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. For more information call (201) 996-5900.